Waterville mayor announces run for governor

AUGUSTA, Maine — Waterville Mayor Paul LePage added his name Tuesday to the list of more than 20 people who have registered as candidates for Maine’s 2010 governor’s race.

LePage, a Republican, formally announced his candidacy during a news conference on the State House steps Tuesday afternoon, although news of his intentions has been circulating since last week.

LePage said his campaign would focus on smaller government, lower taxes, less regulation and improving the state’s business climate. In addition to serving as Waterville’s mayor, LePage is also general manager of Marden’s.

“The only job a governor can create is a government job, and right now we have too many,” LePage said.

Five other Republicans have also filed paperwork with the Ethics Commission for the 2010 gubernatorial race. The rest of the field so far includes seven Democrats, two Green Independents and six unenrolled candidates.